Batteries are required for hearing aids to function. The majority of hearing aids used tiny button batteries for many years, which required replacement every few days or weeks. Modern hearing aids, however, are powered by rechargeable batteries thanks to recent technological advances.
During hearing aid selection, hearing aid batteries should be part of your “to-consider” list. Are you more comfortable with disposable batteries or does your lifestyle call for a more convenient solution?
Two Types of Hearing Aid Batteries
Rechargeable batteries
Unlike hearing aids with conventional disposable batteries, rechargeable hearing aids are designed with built-in batteries that don’t need to be taken out on a regular basis. In a manner similar to how smart phones recharge, you simply dock your hearing aids on a charging unit or charger rather than removing the batteries for replacement.
Standard disposable batteries
Zinc-air batteries are a common type of disposable battery. These batteries have a factory-sealed tag and are air-activated. It will turn on after the sticker is taken off and the batteries are exposed to oxygen. Zinc-air batteries can often last up to three years with proper storage.
Color-coding for hearing aid batteries
Although there are several sizes of hearing aid batteries, to the majority of users, they all appear to be essentially the same. To make it simpler to identify between them and prevent buying the wrong battery size, hearing aid batteries are color-coded according to size.
Below are the hearing aid battery sizes and their corresponding colors:
- Size 13 batteries – orange
- Size 675 batteries – blue
- Size 10 batteries – yellow
- Size 312 batteries – brown
life of Hearing Aid Batteries
Smaller batteries typically have a shorter lifespan than larger batteries. Depending on how frequently they are used, disposable hearing aid batteries can last for five to fourteen days. The size of the battery and how much power the hearing aid requires will determine how long the battery lasts.
Below are the average lifespan of hearing aid batteries according to their corresponding sizes:
*this may vary according to usage
- Size 675 – nine to 20 days
- Size 13 – six to 14 days
- Size 10 – three to seven days
- Size 312 – three to 10 days
If you notice that your hearing aid is having issues with battery longevity, you might need to bring the device to your hearing care provider. A visit to your hearing care provider will be necessary so that they can check the overall status and performance of your hearing aid. To ensure that you are getting the most out of your hearing aid, Hearing Health & Wellness Center provides a wide range of hearing healthcare services including hearing aid maintenance and repair.
How To Extend the Life of a Hearing Aid Battery
Part of taking care of your hearing aid is to make an effort to extend its battery life, whether you are using disposable or rechargeable batteries. Below are some tips on how you can extend the life of your hearing aid batteries:
DO NOT STORE YOUR BATTERIES FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME
Even when they are not in use, batteries gradually lose their charge. As a result, even if they are stored, their power will ultimately run out. Because of this, start by using the oldest batteries first so you can maximize their power rather than letting it deplete.
KEEP THEM IN AN APPROPRIATE PLACE
The environment can greatly influence batteries. They may lose their charge more quickly or even leak in places that are excessively hot, cold, or humid, which could harm your device. Never store them in the bathroom or the refrigerator; instead, put them in a dry, room-temperature location when not in use.
TRY A DEHUMIDIFIER FOR HEARING AIDS
Moisture can harm the batteries in your hearing aids. The battery can be used more effectively by using a hearing aid dehumidifier to help drain moisture from the device and the battery.
Hearing Aid Batteries in Plantsville, CT
Hearing Health & Wellness Center provides a wide range of hearing care services and hearing technologies, including hearing aid batteries and accessories. We are your one-stop audiology service provider in Plantsville, CT and nearby communities.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!